Manchester United are weighing up a potential summer swap deal involving Manuel Ugarte as they target Sandro Tonali from Newcastle United.
The proposed arrangement would see Ugarte move to St James’ Park, with United using the midfielder as part of a package to secure Tonali amid plans for a major squad rebuild.
Ugarte struggles open exit door
Ugarte’s future at Old Trafford has come under increasing doubt following limited involvement under interim boss Michael Carrick.
The 25-year-old has struggled to secure regular minutes and has not started a Premier League match since early January.
Despite arriving for £51 million and signing a long-term deal running until 2029, the Uruguayan has failed to fully adapt to the system, slipping behind emerging talent Kobbie Mainoo in the midfield hierarchy.
Newcastle, who have tracked Ugarte since his time at Sporting CP, are understood to have renewed their interest after a previous approach was turned down earlier in the year.
Tonali identified as priority target
United have made Tonali a key midfield target as they look to bolster their options, particularly with veteran midfielder Casemiro expected to depart.
The club are also at risk of missing out on alternative targets, including Elliot Anderson, which has accelerated their interest in the Italian international.
However, any deal remains complex. Tonali is under contract at Newcastle until 2028 and is viewed as a core player within Eddie Howe’s setup.
Deal hinges on Newcastle stance
The feasibility of the swap largely depends on Newcastle’s willingness to part with Tonali, a move that could prove unpopular with supporters given his importance to the squad.
At the same time, the Magpies must weigh their long-standing interest in Ugarte against the risk of losing a key midfield asset.